Archive for Ecotourism

The Sedona International Film Festival is proud to present three films in celebration of Sedona Wolf Week on Thursday and Friday, April 20 and 21 at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre. The event will include the Sedona premieres of “Living With Wolves” and “Gray Area” on Thursday, and the encore return of “Medicine of the Wolf” for two screenings on Friday. The event will feature a special appearance by wolf pups (Thor, Loki, Kona and Taboo) along with Apex Protection Project founders Paula Ficara and Steve Wastell.

LIVING WITH WOLVES — Free ScreeningThursday, April 20 at 4 pm

The Sedona International Film Festival presents a free screening of “Living With Wolves” as the kick-off event for Sedona Wolf Week. The film is narrated by Liev Schreiber.

Wolves have been characterized as ruthless animals with no characteristics other than the lust for blood. Determined to break this misconception, documentary filmmakers Jim and Jaime Dutcher spent six years living with an untamed pack of them in the wilderness of Idaho.

Wolves are indeed predators capable of tearing a man to pieces but as the Dutchers gain the trust of the pack they somewhat become a part of it and are allowed to see the intimate traits of these extremely intelligent animals.

A wolf documentary that breaks all boundaries and reveals the details of life in a wolf pack, “Living With Wolves” is a heartwarming film between human and predator. Stunning cinematography will give you a new perception of this iconic animal.

The Dutchers are offering this movie for free admission as it is their goal to generate awareness of and educate people on the true nature of wolves.

GRAY AREAThursday, April 20 at 7 pm

The premiere screening of “Gray Area” will feature a special introduction and Q&A with filmmaker Alan Lacy.

In the American Southwest, a unique species of wolf unlike any other is making a comeback. Considered extinct nearly 40 years ago, the little known Mexican gray wolf has slowly pulled back from the very brink — against all odds.

From a founding population of just seven animals, this species has slowly grown to a current wild population of approximately 100, only to face a new threat from within: its own genetics. As part of a bold recovery mission, one lone wolf is given a chance to offer new hope for the survival of her species.

In telling this story, narrated by Chris Morgan, “Gray Area” explores whether there can be a balanced and sustainable future where ranchers, conservationists, locals, and biologists alike can coexist with this apex predator.

For first-time filmmaker Lacy, the vision of the film was to present all sides of the issue and what the future may hold for this wolf species.

MEDICINE OF THE WOLFEncore screenings with wolf pups in attendanceFriday, April 21 at 4 and 7 pm

“Medicine of the Wolf” is back by popular demand for Sedona Wolf Week after sold-out screenings last spring. The event will feature a special appearance by wolf pups (Thor, Loki, Kona and Taboo) along with Apex Protection Project founders Paula Ficara and Steve Wastell.

In this beautiful and important documentary, filmmaker Julia Huffman travels to Minnesota and into wolf country to pursue the deep intrinsic value of brother wolf and our forgotten promise to him.

“Medicine of the Wolf” will take viewers on a journey to understand the powerful relationship that we have with the wolf by interviewing prominent people who represent the different levels of connection to this ancient and iconic species — from Ojibwe creation stories that reflect our interconnectivity to all things, to a lifetime of observations of a complex and dynamic family unit, to a wolf scientist expressing his layered findings in an over 50 year study of the delicate web that wolves weave into our ecosystem.

“Medicine of the Wolf” centers on the remarkable, world-renowned environmentalist and National Geographic photographer Jim Brandenburg, who has photographed, studied and been on the ground with wolves for 45 years — longer than anyone in history. As our guide, Brandenburg enables us to see the world of the wolf as we have never seen it before. The film also has a crucial message for us: The gray wolf must be preserved on the endangered species list.

Apex Protection Project, and wolf pups Thor, Loki, Kona and Taboo will be in the theater for a short presentation and Q & A following both screenings.

All screenings will take place at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre on Thursday and Friday, April 20 and 21. Tickets are free for “Living With Wolves” and $12, or $9 for Film Festival members for “Gray Area” and “Medicine of the Wolf”. For tickets and more information, please call 928-282-1177. Both the theatre and film festival office are located at 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, in West Sedona. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.org.

See Sonora spread her majestic wings onboard the 4-hour train ride.

Come see and learn about raptors and other native Sedona wildlife at the Verde Canyon Railroad depot and on the train. It’s great event for nature lovers of all ages. Handlers, presenting a variety of raptors and native “critters”, will answer questions and pose for photos during the depot patio presentation.

Presentations are all open to the public and are from 11:00 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. By partnering with Arizona’s Liberty Wildlife, Verde Canyon Railroad provides visitors the opportunity to see majestic owls and wild raptors at the depot and onboard the train.

Liberty Wildlife shares the beauty of a rescued bald eagle, our nation’s noble bird, with visitors to the depot and on the train on select Saturdays throughout the year. Get up close to Sonora, the only bald eagle in the world that regularly enjoys a train ride.

RAPTOR PRESENTATION ONBOARD THE TRAIN:April 1, May 6, June 3, July 4, August 5, September 2, October 4, November 4, December 2

RAPTOR & REPTILES AT THE DEPOT:April 13, May 18, June 15, July 20, August 24, September 21, October 18, November 16, December 20

Visit LibertyWildlife.org to learn more about these amazing creatures and their terrific rescue work.

The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is returning to Sedona. For the third year, the Sedona International Film Festival is bringing the spirit of outdoor adventure and mountain culture to red rock country. This year’s screenings feature the world’s best mountain sport, culture and environmental films, letting you experience the thrill and challenges of the mountain environments that inspire us all.

The Sedona tour stop has been expanded to two nights, by popular demand: Tuesday, March 14 and Wednesday, March 15 at 7 p.m. at the Sedona Performing Arts Center. Each night will feature a different program of films. Audience members can attend either one of the nights or get a package discount to attend both evenings.

The Banff Centre’s Banff Mountain Film Festival is the one of the most prestigious mountain festivals in the world. Hot on the heels of the festival held every fall in Banff, Alberta, the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour hits the road with stops planned in about 450 communities and 40 countries across the globe.

A Canoe, Kayak and Stand-up Paddle Board Race on the Verde River in Camp Verde, Arizona, March 18th 2017.

The snowfall up the hill in Flagstaff has been good this year and we are anticipating good river levels for this fun and popular event, which draws novice and seasoned paddlers alike.

The Verde River Runoff includes both a 5 and 10-mile race – each with multiple categories for entry. The 10-mile race starts at White Bridge and the 5-mile race starts at the River Access at Clear Creek. Both races end at Beasley Flats. The river has a nice current with Class I-II rapids and winds its way through mostly Forest Service lands. This race is a competitive event as well as a family-friendly celebration of nature and boating during prime season for river running in the Verde Valley. Safety personnel will be stationed along the river. An after party and awards ceremony will be held in conjunction with the Spring Heritage Pecan & Wine Festival, which will be happening concurrently in Camp Verde. Go to VerdeRiverRunoff.org for online registration, event details, and updates.

The Verde River Runoff is organized by the Verde River Valley Nature Organization. VRVNO is a non-profit organization that is raising awareness of our natural resources by providing recreation, education and nature-tourism opportunities supporting the stewardship of the Verde River Valley. This event is made possible through a special use permit from the Prescott National Forest.

Progams and Events

Wednesday & Saturday Bird Walks – 9 AM

Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as an Important Birding Area (IBA) because of the many species that live or visit here. Please meet up with the leader on the viewing deck above the visitor center. If birding on your own, the Hummingbird Patio is an excellent spot to start your tour. Another good viewing point is the Visitor Center roof.

Sunday March 12, 2017 1:00pm

Join our knowledgeable volunteers as they venture out on our trails and discuss how the beautiful red rock formations developed over long periods of time. This is an interpretive experience for both the beginner and experienced hiker, lasting between 2-2 ½ hours and an elevation gain of 250 feet. Please bring water and wear suitable footwear. This hike is included with the park entrance fee.

Sunday March 19, 2017 1:00pm

Red Rock State Park has been a destination for Native Americans for several millennia. Most of the ancient features found in the park are from the Sinagua culture dating about 1100 to 1425 AD. Hear the fascinating story of the pre-Columbian people who lived and traveled in the park! The hike will identify the various archaeological features and interpret them into the wider context of important regional Sinagua sites. And we will explore ideas of other cultures that may likely have made use of the park’s resources. The hike will last about two hours, with an elevation gain of some 250 feet, along easy trails. Please bring water and wear suitable footwear. This hike is included with park entrance fees.

Sunday March 26, 2017 1:00pm

Learn more about the native plants of Sedona and how they’re interconnected with indigenous cultures, pioneer settlers, wildlife, and even modern society.Learning more about the native plants and trees here in the Sedona area is a great way to enhance any hike. Our volunteer guides explain how plant life is interconnected with indigenous cultures, pioneer settlers, people in our contemporary times and wildlife. This interpretive experience is for both the beginner and experienced hiker, lasting between 2-2½ hours with an elevation gain of 250 feet. Please bring water, wear suitable footwear and meet in the Visitor Center a little before 1PM.

Sedona’s Red Rock State Park is a 286 acre nature preserve and environmental education center with stunning scenery. Trails throughout the park wind through manzanita and juniper to reach the rich banks of Oak Creek. Green meadows are framed by native vegetation and hills of red rock. The creek meanders through the park, creating a diverse riparian habitat abounding with plants and wildlife. This riparian habitat provides the setting and the opportunity for the park to offer a focus on environmental education.

Park facilities include a visitors center, classroom, theater, gift shop, picnic tables, 10 developed trails, restrooms, and group area with Ramada and facilities. The restrooms are handicapped accessible. Camping facilities are not available at this park.

Red Rock State Park is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm seven days a week.

February Progams and Events

Wednesday & Saturday Bird Walks – 9 AM

Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as an Important Birding Area (IBA) because of the many species that live or visit here. Please meet up with the leader on the viewing deck above the visitor center. If birding on your own, the Hummingbird Patio is an excellent spot to start your tour. Another good viewing point is the Visitor Center roof.

Sunday February 12, 2017 1:00pm

Join our knowledgeable volunteers as they venture out on our trails and discuss how the beautiful red rock formations developed over long periods of time. This is an interpretive experience for both the beginner and experienced hiker, lasting between 2-2 ½ hours and an elevation gain of 250 feet. Please bring water and wear suitable footwear. This hike is included with the park entrance fee.

Sunday February 19, 2017 1:00pm

Red Rock State Park has been a destination for Native Americans for several millennia. Most of the ancient features found in the park are from the Sinagua culture dating about 1100 to 1425 AD. Hear the fascinating story of the pre-Columbian people who lived and traveled in the park! The hike will identify the various archaeological features and interpret them into the wider context of important regional Sinagua sites. And we will explore ideas of other cultures that may likely have made use of the park’s resources. The hike will last about two hours, with an elevation gain of some 250 feet, along easy trails. Please bring water and wear suitable footwear. This hike is included with park entrance fees.

Sunday February 26, 2017 1:00pm

Learn more about the native plants of Sedona and how they’re interconnected with indigenous cultures, pioneer settlers, wildlife, and even modern society.Learning more about the native plants and trees here in the Sedona area is a great way to enhance any hike. Our volunteer guides explain how plant life is interconnected with indigenous cultures, pioneer settlers, people in our contemporary times and wildlife. This interpretive experience is for both the beginner and experienced hiker, lasting between 2-2½ hours with an elevation gain of 250 feet. Please bring water, wear suitable footwear and meet in the Visitor Center a little before 1PM.

Sedona’s Red Rock State Park is a 286 acre nature preserve and environmental education center with stunning scenery. Trails throughout the park wind through manzanita and juniper to reach the rich banks of Oak Creek. Green meadows are framed by native vegetation and hills of red rock. The creek meanders through the park, creating a diverse riparian habitat abounding with plants and wildlife. This riparian habitat provides the setting and the opportunity for the park to offer a focus on environmental education.

Park facilities include a visitors center, classroom, theater, gift shop, picnic tables, 10 developed trails, restrooms, and group area with Ramada and facilities. The restrooms are handicapped accessible. Camping facilities are not available at this park.

Red Rock State Park is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm seven days a week.

A Sunrise or Sunset are the magical times to be out on the trail and these horseback rides on this 100 year old family-run cattle ranch may turn out to be the highlight of your Sedona vacation. It is also the best time of day to see wildlife on the trail. Like most of the rides at the M Diamond Ranch, the groups are usually small, resulting in a more personal experience. Sunrise and sunset rides run from January through May and September through December.

Visit the M Diamond Ranch website for more information, and you can book your ride online while you are there! The price is only $85 per person plus tax.